Workshop Wednesday - Setting Up Writer's Workshop

I have been enjoying reading today's posts from some of my favorite bloggers and getting loads of practical ideas for next year on how to set up or start off workshops (reading, writing and math, oh my!). I also have been a very busy little pinner.

I spent sometime in my classroom today (okay 3 hours) and was talking with one of my BFF's (crazy teachers that we are, we were both in the school today and talking and talking about next year and our plans) and I named a few things that will be part of my writing program next year.

Things I will be continuing...

Using ideas from The Learning Pad on building a Writing Community. I like some of their book suggestions and lesson ideas. I used this more when I was teaching Grade 2 but I still like the structure, I just modify it to make it work for me.

Use a writing folder that is kept in their desk to hold current writing pieces, a checklist for the current assignment, their dictionary and thesaurus. Last year I used cute little labels from the super talented Kristen from Ladybug's Teacher Files .

Last year I started this peer editing system based on this freebie but need to be more consistent. Click on the picture to pick up this freebie form Ms. Jordan Reads.

I of course will be using mentor texts :).

Here are a few things that I will be adding to my writing workshop.

Mentor Sentences. I am super excited to start this program and already have Jivey's first package in a binder ready to go.

Word Attack Notebooks - I just read about this in a post by Brandee from Creating Lifelong Learners. I will be starting a Word Power Notebook only we will not be Ninjas, we will be superheroes, cause that is what fits with my theme and I found this cute little labels at Michael's for $1.50! (Should probably go back and pick up another pack!!)

Today while reading Jivey`s post I saw that awesome writing anchor chart and will be making one of those pronto - just thinking if I want to use magnets or clips!!

I love your writing binder idea! I have heard about the paragraph a week also but really need to check it out on TPT. Where do the students store those or do they even keep them? Thanks for any suggestions:)~HollyFourth Grade Flipper

This was a fabulous post! Thanks for letting us take a peek into your Writer's Workshop. I am super duper excited about the dictionary and thesaurus that you were so kind to share with us. Thanks so much!!!

Your post has by far been the most amazing, educational post ever. You have taught me so much in one sitting. You have inspired me and guided me into having a complete Writer's Workshop. I am truly looking forward to getting my Writer's Program started when we go back to school. Thank you sooo much for directing/guiding me to so many links. Najda@gardenfullofknowledgenajda_2000@yahoo.com